Registered Nurses at University of Washington Medical Center Hold Informational Picketing

Registered Nurses at University of Washington Medical Center Hold
Informational Picketing
SEATTLE, Sept. 2 /PRNewswire/ --

Attention: Health care and business editors

What: Registered Nurses at University of Washington Hold Medical
Center Informational Picketing
When: Wednesday, September 3rd, 7:30am - 10:00am
Where: University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 N.E. Pacific in
Seattle, WA
Why: After months of negotiation, more than 1,200 registered nurses at
University of Washington Medical Center (UWMC) and the Hospital still have not
reached an agreement. The outstanding critical issues include:
Rest between Shifts - The Hospital's proposal to reduce the time of rest
between shifts places both patient care and RN safety in jeopardy. Research
studies confirm that the amount of time nurses receive between shifts is
directly linked to an increase in negative patient outcomes. Any attempts to
reduce the time of rest between shifts for RNs are simply irresponsible.
Economic Package - In order to recruit and retain qualified nurses in this
time of a shortage of nurses, we must have a competitive economic package that
is consistent with hospitals throughout the region and the State. UWMC's
current wages are 8% below comparable Seattle area hospitals. Its latest
proposal of 4% over the next 2 years is simply not competitive.
Changes in Benefits - Proposed changes by the Hospital will greatly reduce
the nurses' ability to take time off including time off to care for sick
family members. Nurses simply want to maintain the current level of benefits
and are not demanding anything additional.
Visuals: Hundreds of RNs picketing in front of the Hospital along Pacific
St. and Montlake Blvd.
Interviews: Opportunities for media interviews include recent UWMC
patient, RN who has left the Hospital as well as RNs currently working in
UWMC.
Contact: Anne Tan Piazza
Director of Governmental Affairs & Communications
C: 206-459-6409 O: 206-575-7979 x3006 or apiazza@wsna.org

Founded in 1908, WSNA is the professional organization representing more
than 15,000 registered nurses in Washington State. WSNA effectively advocates
for the improvement of health standards and availability of quality health
care for all people; promotes high standards for the nursing profession; and
advances the professional and economic development of nurses.
SOURCE Washington State Nurses Association

Anne Tan Piazza, Director of Governmental Affairs & Communications of WSNA,
Cell, +1-206-459-6409, Office, +1-206-575-7979 x3006, or apiazza@wsna.org